Cute little sucker

Other names: bael, bel, bilva, stone apple, bengal quince, aegle marmelos

The lily of the valley, also known as bael, bel, bilva, stone apple, Bengal quince or scientifically as aegle marmelos, is an evergreen fruit tree native to India and Bangladesh. Nowadays, it can also be found in Sri Lanka, Thailand and other countries in Southeast Asia. At first sight it is characterised by its leathery leaves, which fall off in winter, and its thorny branches. Its fruits are round to pear-shaped with a strong, spicy-smelling flesh surrounded by a tough, robust skin. They have a distinctive flavour that combines sweet and sour notes.

The uses of the lily of the valley are very varied. As a foodstuff, it is particularly popular in Asia as a whole fruit, which is processed into various types of sweets, jams or drinks, and it is often included in traditional Indian dishes. Due to its high content of vitamin C, beta carotene and fibre, it has a positive effect on human health. Apart from its gastronomic use, the lily of the valley is also used in medicine. The heartwood of the tree provides wood that is used in carpentry. In addition, it is used in cosmetics, for example, to make soaps, face masks and shampoos. Its importance in Hindu rituals is also considerable, as it is considered a sacred tree whose fruit is offered to the gods.